కులహీనమయినా, వరహీనము కారాదు

This expression highlights the fundamental importance of food for survival. It conveys that food is the essence of life and that all living beings depend on it to exist. It is often used to remind people of the sacredness of food and the necessity of basic sustenance before pursuing higher spiritual or intellectual goals.

This proverb is used to describe an ironic or paradoxical situation where someone loses their accumulated wealth or resources to a natural disaster, yet the very source or cause of that disaster (like rain) remains abundantly available. It implies that while the end product is lost, the root cause persists.

This proverb suggests that one's social standing or birth is less important than the qualities, luck, or divine blessings they possess. In a practical sense, it is often used to emphasize that even if a person comes from a humble background, they should possess good fortune or the strength of character to succeed.

This proverb is a humorous take on hypocritical devotion or selective surrender. It describes a person who claims to surrender everything valuable (like life and wealth) to a mentor or God for the sake of appearance, but in reality, keeps the physical control (the key to the chest) and their own comfort firmly in their own hands. It is used to mock people who act as if they are selfless but remain deeply possessive and untrusting.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of preserving one's fundamental habits, culture, or sources of sustenance even when moving to a new place or facing significant changes. It specifically refers to the hardiness of horse gram (ulavalu), suggesting that one should never give up on the basic principles that provide strength and stability.

This expression is used to reflect on the past with nostalgia or to express skepticism about the future. It suggests that people often perceive the present or the unknown future as more difficult or uncertain compared to the 'good old days' they have already experienced.

This proverb describes a situation where a higher authority is willing to help or approve a request, but the subordinates or intermediaries create obstacles. It is commonly used to express frustration with bureaucracy, middle-men, or lower-level officials who block progress despite orders from the top.

This expression emphasizes the importance of basic necessities and proper preparation. Just as one cannot present themselves in society without proper clothing, one cannot serve or consume a meal on an empty banana leaf (plate). It is used to convey that certain things are incomplete or useless without their essential components.

This proverb suggests that when bad people fight or disagree with each other, it results in a favorable outcome for good people. Their internal conflicts prevent them from uniting to cause harm to others, or their mutual destruction clears the path for the righteous to prosper.

This proverb highlights that when luck or divine grace is not on one's side, even simple situations can turn disastrous or lead to self-harm. It is used to describe a period of extreme misfortune where one's own actions or anger result in unexpected and painful consequences.